How to Become an iOS Developer (2026 Guide)

iOS DeveloperUpdated February 2026

Embarking on a career as an iOS Developer in 2026 offers a blend of creativity and technical expertise. Despite shifts in the job market, opportunities remain for those with the right skills and dedication.

Key Facts

The demand for iOS developers is projected to grow by 17% from 2023 to 2033. ([research.com](https://research.com/degrees/how-to-become-an-app-developer-salary-and-career-paths?utm_source=openai))
Entry-level iOS developers earn an average of $105,000 annually. ([coursera.org](https://www.coursera.org/articles/ios-developer-salary?utm_source=openai))
Proficiency in Swift and SwiftUI is increasingly valued in the industry. ([linkedin.com](https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/salary-trends-ios-developers-india-us-europe-2025-roshan-chaturvedi-ldgqf?utm_source=openai))
Certifications like the Meta iOS Developer Professional Certificate can enhance job prospects. ([coursera.org](https://www.coursera.org/professional-certificates/meta-ios-developer?utm_source=openai))
Building a strong portfolio with diverse projects is crucial for career advancement.

The Path

Learn Swift and Objective-C: Mastering Swift, Apple's primary programming language, is essential. Familiarity with Objective-C can also be beneficial.
Understand the iOS Ecosystem: Gain proficiency in Xcode, Apple's integrated development environment, and familiarize yourself with the iOS SDK.
Build Projects: Create sample applications to apply your knowledge and showcase your skills.
Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest iOS developments, including SwiftUI and Combine frameworks.
Obtain Certifications: Consider certifications like the Meta iOS Developer Professional Certificate to validate your expertise.

Skills You Need

Programming Languages: Proficiency in Swift and Objective-C.
Development Tools: Experience with Xcode and the iOS SDK.
UI/UX Design: Understanding of user interface and user experience principles.
Version Control: Knowledge of Git for code management.
Problem-Solving: Ability to debug and optimize code effectively.

Building Your Portfolio

Diverse Projects: Develop a range of applications showcasing different functionalities.
Open Source Contributions: Participate in open-source projects to demonstrate collaboration skills.
Continuous Learning: Highlight ongoing education and certifications.

The Job Search

Networking: Engage with the developer community through forums and events.
Tailored Applications: Customize your resume and cover letter for each job application.
Interview Preparation: Practice coding challenges and familiarize yourself with common interview questions.
Stay Informed: Keep up with industry trends to align your skills with market demands.

Career Advice

Focus on continuous learning and adaptability to stay relevant in the evolving tech landscape. Engage with the developer community to expand your network and discover new opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average salary for an iOS Developer?

The average salary for an iOS Developer in the US is approximately $130,000 per year. ([coursera.org](https://www.coursera.org/articles/ios-app-developer?utm_source=openai))

Are certifications necessary to become an iOS Developer?

While not mandatory, certifications like the Meta iOS Developer Professional Certificate can validate your skills and enhance job prospects. ([coursera.org](https://www.coursera.org/professional-certificates/meta-ios-developer?utm_source=openai))